Author & Affiliation
Mst. Saleha Akther
Department of Social Work
Asian University of Bangladesh (AUB)
Department of Social Work
Asian University of Bangladesh (AUB)
Publication Info
Journal: Journal of Economics and Development Studies (JEDS)
Volume: 3 | Date: November 1, 2014
ISSN: 2304-4160
Volume: 3 | Date: November 1, 2014
ISSN: 2304-4160
Abstract
This research explores the profound transformations in child care practices within the urban landscapes of Bangladesh, driven by the forces of globalization. As the country integrates more deeply into the global economy, urban areas have witnessed a significant shift in family structures, moving from traditional extended families to nuclear setups. Mst. Saleha Akther analyzes how the rise in female labor force participation, a byproduct of global economic trends, has necessitated new forms of child care, such as institutionalized day care centers and reliance on paid domestic help. The study highlights both the opportunities and challenges brought by globalization, including improved access to early childhood education and health technology, alongside the loss of traditional emotional support systems. Through a social work lens, the paper evaluates the psychological impact on children and the increasing pressure on working parents to balance career demands with quality parenting. The findings suggest that while globalization has modernized child care infrastructure, it has also created a socio-economic divide in the quality of care available, calling for more inclusive social policies and community-based support systems to ensure the well-being of the next generation in a rapidly changing urban environment.
Keywords: Globalization, Child Care, Urbanization, Social Work, Family Structure, Labor Force Participation, Bangladesh.